About the Commission
The Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) is a statutory body established under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. The Commission functions as an autonomous body to protect, promote, and defend child rights in the state of Gujarat.
Vision: To create a Gujarat where every child enjoys their rights to survival, protection, development, and participation in a safe and nurturing environment.
Formed in alignment with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) at the central level, the GSCPCR works relentlessly to ensure that the provisions of the Constitution of India and various laws related to children are properly enforced.
The Commission is committed to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by children in Gujarat by conducting inquiries into violations of child rights, examining existing safeguards, and recommending appropriate measures for effective implementation of child rights legislation.
Children are not merely the responsibility of their families but are the collective responsibility of society and the state. The GSCPCR serves as a bridge between the vulnerable children of Gujarat and the various government systems designed to protect them.
Historical Background
India ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1992, committing to protect and ensure the rights of children. Following this, the Government of India enacted the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act in 2005, which provided for the establishment of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights.
The Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights was constituted to monitor the proper implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, Right to Education Act, 2009, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and other laws related to children.
Since its establishment, the Commission has been working closely with various government departments, civil society organizations, and child rights activists to create a protective environment for children across the state.
Functions and Powers
The Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights is mandated to perform the following functions:
- Inquire into violations: Examine and investigate complaints of violation of child rights and take suo moto cognizance of such matters.
- Review safeguards: Review existing safeguards provided for protection of child rights and recommend measures for their effective implementation.
- Implement laws: Promote research and awareness about child rights, and monitor the implementation of laws related to children.
- Examine factors: Examine all factors that inhibit the enjoyment of rights of children, particularly those from disadvantaged sections.
- Recommend remedial measures: Present reports to the government on working of child rights safeguards and recommend measures for improvement.
- Spread awareness: Spread child rights literacy among various sections of society and promote awareness.
- Inspect institutions: Inspect juvenile homes, shelters, and other institutions providing care to children and recommend improvements.
- Inquire into complaints: Inquire into complaints related to deprivation and violation of child rights, non-implementation of laws, and non-compliance of policy decisions.
The Commission also has the power of a civil court while trying a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, which includes:
- Summoning and enforcing the attendance of witnesses
- Discovery and production of documents
- Receiving evidence on affidavits
- Requisitioning public records
- Issuing commissions for examination of witnesses
Key Initiatives and Programs
Child Rights Awareness Campaigns
Regular campaigns in schools and communities to educate children about their rights and mechanisms for protection.
POCSO Act Implementation
Mechanisms to ensure proper implementation of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act across the state.
Child Marriage Prevention
Initiatives to prevent child marriages through community engagement and enforcement of Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.
Education Rights
Monitoring implementation of Right to Education Act to ensure quality education for all children.
Bal Panchayats
Establishment of children's councils to give children a platform to voice their concerns.
Child Trafficking Prevention
Collaboration with law enforcement agencies to prevent child trafficking and rescue operations.
Recent Achievements
In the past year, the Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has:
- Resolved over 1,500 complaints related to child rights violations
- Conducted 300+ inspections of child care institutions
- Organized 200+ awareness programs reaching over 50,000 children
- Successfully intervened in 100+ cases of child labor rescuing children from hazardous workplaces
Organizational Structure
The Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights consists of the following members:
| Position | Role |
|---|---|
| Chairperson | Provides leadership and direction to the Commission |
| Member Secretary | Handles administrative functions and ensures smooth operations |
| Members (6) | Experts in fields of child health, education, welfare, psychology, law, etc. |
The Chairperson of the Commission is appointed from amongst persons of eminence in the field of child development, welfare, child psychology, psychiatry, sociology, law, education, or any other discipline relating to children.
At least two members of the Commission are women, and the government ensures that members from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes are adequately represented.
Contact Information
How to Reach Us
Address: Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Block No. 12, 2nd Floor, Dr. Jivraj Mehta Bhavan, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
Email: gscpcr.gujarat@gmail.com
Helpline: 1800-233-1555 (Toll-free)
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Filing a Complaint
Any person including a child can file a complaint to the Commission regarding:
- Violation of child rights
- Non-implementation of laws relating to children
- Non-compliance of policies meant for child welfare
- Issues related to child abuse or neglect
Complaints can be filed via email, post, or by visiting the Commission office in person.
File a Complaint Online
